Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
General Information

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction:
The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the most important stabilizing structures of the knee. When it has been torn, it becomes very difficult to play sports effectively and sometimes it even makes it painful just to walk. If left unrepaired, the instability a tear creates will lead to progressive deterioration of the joint, ultimately resulting in the patient having to avoid many of the activities they desire to participate in. It is also probable that over time the instability will result in degenerative arthritis that could lead to the need for a total knee replacement someday.

It has been shown statistically that when a knee with a torn anterior cruciate ligament undergoes successful reconstruction, not only can the patient often return to the majority of the sports they desire to participate in, but the increased stability can greatly deter the development of degnenerative changes.

Following a successful ligament reconstructiuon, not everyone will be able to achieve their previous level of function. Nevertheless, most are able to lead a much more active and comfortable lifestyle. The ultimate result is highly dependent on your motivation and your willingness to involve yourself in the post-operative rehabilitation program.

The Surgery:
In most cases, the surgery is done as an outpatient at the hospital or surgical center under a general anesthetic. It is usually done arthroscopically. The tissue used to reconstruct the ligament is either taken from portions of your own tendons or ligaments, or, in some cases, tissue from a tissue bank can be used. The surgery takes about 1 1/2 hours and another 1-2 hours in the recovery room..

The Recovery:
Immediately after the operation, you will be started on a machine that will flex and extend your knee for you so that the rehabilitation process can be started quickly. You will be on a pair of crutches for 2-4 weeks and will start on formal physical therapy one week after surgery. The therapy will be gradually increased over time on a very specific schedule that is important to follow closely.

Most patients are able to go back to jogging at three months and contact sports at 6-9 months depending on your level of conditioning. Although many physicians use special braces after the surgery, Dr. Levy has found that this is usually not necessary for many of his patients.

Return to Work:
Driving can be resumed at 1-4 weeks post-op, depending on which knee has surgery. If you have a desk job, it is feasible to return to work in a week or less. On the other hand, a construction worker could be out of work for 3-6 months.

Things to Report:
You should call the office at (619)589-6888 if you develop any of the following:

Fever over 101 degrees
Redness around the incision
Drainage or bleeding from the incision
Increased swelling
Pain in the calf
Calf Swelling

PLEASE NOTE:
If you are on blood thinners (Coumadin, aspirin) or you are diabetic and on Glucophage, please notify Dr. Levy's nurse.